In this special 50th anniversary episode, we take a look back, and forward at how the

Great Barrier Reef has been cared for over the past five decades. Joining us is Dr Ian

Poiner, long-time marine scientist and Chair of the Reef Authority board.

Often described as the best-managed reef in the world, the Great Barrier Reef’s story is

one of innovation, collaboration, and continuous improvement, drawing on the latest

science, Traditional Knowledge, and decades of dedicated management. A lot has

changed since the Marine Park was first established, and that journey is far from over.

In this episode, we explore how Reef management has evolved, what it looks like

today, and the hopeful path we’re on for the next 50 years.

Protecting the Reef isn’t just about science. It’s about people, passion, and persistence. The fight to save the Reef started with everyday Australians who cared enough to act, and 50 years later, that same spirit is just as important. The Reef’s story is our story, and it’s still being written.

We're diving into a truly special episode, marking 50 years since the establishment of the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Act, a milestone in environmental protection that helped shape how we care for this natural wonder. To help us explore the deep history and human story behind one of Australia’s greatest environmental achievements, we're joined by Dr Rohan Lloyd, historian and author of Saving the Reef.

From protest movements to policy breakthroughs, Rohan brings the past to life and helps us understand how far we've come in protecting the Reef.

The Great Barrier Reef has faced its share of challenges recently, from tropical cyclones to flood plumes and coral bleaching. In the season opener of Reef in Focus season two, we bring together two leading experts: Dr Roger Beeden, Chief Scientist at the Reef Authority, and Dr David Wachenfeld, Research Program Director at the Australian Institute of Marine Science.

Join us as we go beyond the headlines to discuss everything from monitoring to management, unpack the impact of recent events on the Reef, and discuss what lies ahead for the summer. It's a must-listen for anyone passionate about the science behind protecting one of the world’s most iconic ecosystems.

More: reefauthority.gov.au/podcast